Carbon Laser Facial: Benefits, How It Works, & Side Effects

Did You Know?

Carbon laser facial treatment is widely known as the Hollywood peel because of its popularity among celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Gwenyth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, and Jennifer Aniston.

What Is The Carbon Laser Facial And How Does It Work?

The carbon laser facial is a two-step, instant glow, non-invasive treatment for clear and rejuvenated skin. Pollution, dust, and an unhealthy lifestyle can make your skin look dull, rough, and dehydrated. This carbon facial is an effective way to laser target all your skin woes – hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and premature aging.

This laser resurfacing technique is a popular anti-aging treatment that can also help in acne treatment and wrinkle reduction by increasing collagen production and promoting skin tightening.

The charcoal mask attracts all the dirt and gunk from the clogged pores. A 1064 nm laser is used to peel the mask off, along with the dead skin layer, dirt, and excess oil, to reveal smooth, clear, and soft skin with minimized pores.(1).

This facial is done by a licensed dermatologist. Let’s take a closer look at the procedure to get a clear picture of this treatment.

What Is The Procedure Of Carbon Laser Facial?

• Your face is cleaned with cotton pads to remove makeup, dirt, and oil.

• A thin layer of a liquid carbon is applied to your face in an upward motion.

• Protective eyewear will help shield your eyes from the laser.

• A 1064 nm laser is used to peel the mask off gently without any pain.

• A skin-soothing ointment is applied to your face.

That’s it! You will get your glow within 30 minutes!

Kieara C Francis, a YouTuber, shares her experience of getting a carbon laser facial in one of her vlogs: “Once the treatment was done and I actually looked at myself, I was literally glowing. It almost looked like I had a brand new face (i).” However, “It does smell a little bit funky. It smells like something is burning,” she adds about the procedure.

Check out the benefits you can reap from a carbon laser facial.

Benefits Of Carbon Laser Peel Facial

• Pain-free.
• No downtime required.
• Takes about 15-20 minutes.
• Removes dirt and oil from clogged pores.
• Reduces hyperpigmentation (2).
• Evens out the skin tone.
• Exfoliates the dead skin cells.
• Lightens dark spots and age spots.
• Fades acne scars (2).
• Adds an instant glow.

Trivia

Studies have confirmed that carbon laser facial prevents acne and inflammation (3) by targeting enlarged and clogged pores.

Carbon Laser Peel Facial Before And After Results

The results show a huge difference in skin pigmentation and overall appearance.

But before you book your appointment, here are a few things you should know. Find out what they are in the next section.

How Long Will The Results Last?

The effects of carbon laser peel facial last for about 2-3 weeks. The results are prompt, but if you get exposed to the sun and have open pores and acne scars, you might need to get a second carbon facial.

Everybody’s skin may react differently. Hence, consult the dermatologist who did the first session to know when to get the second one.

Within these 2-3 weeks between the sessions, you need to have a special aftercare routine. Here is a list of things to do and avoid after a carbon laser peel.

Carbon Laser Peel Facial Aftercare

• Avoid stepping out in the sun for 24-48 hours. If you do, apply an SPF 50 sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun as best you can.

• Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Do not use face scrubs.

• Use an oil- or water-based moisturizer, depending on your skin type.

• Sleep on a clean satin pillowcase.

• Avoid products that contain Retin-A, tretinoin, and hydroquinone.

• Do not apply chemical peels like glycolic and lactic acids.

• Avoid topical acne medications.

Following these practices will keep your skin glowing for a long time after the treatment. But the real question is, for the benefits you get, how much will a single session of carbon laser facial cost? Scroll down to find out.

How Much Does Carbon Laser Facial Cost?

Carbon laser facial costs around $400 per session. You need to get 2-3 sessions within two months and take proper care of your skin for the rest of the year. Consult your dermatologist to know how many sessions you would need as per your skin condition.

Although carbon laser facial treatment is safe and pain-free, you may experience some possible side effects.

Side Effects Of Carbon Laser Facial

• Redness
• Swelling
• Dry skin and flakiness
• Itching

These side effects generally subside within 2-3 days. Talk to your doctor to know if you can apply aloe vera gel or ice water to soothe sensitive skin.

Infographic: Tips To Prep Your Skin Before A Carbon Laser Facial

Carbon facial laser is a non-invasive procedure that helps unclog your pores and cleanses and rejuvenates your skin. However, you must prep your skin weeks ahead of getting the procedure. You may discuss the dos and don’ts with your doctor and follow the tips discussed in the infographic below.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: HydraFacial or carbon laser?

Both procedures are used for different purposes. HydraFacial is used for skin hydration. Carbon laser is used for skin rejuvenation and restoration.

Does carbon peeling remove facial hair?

It is possible to experience temporary facial hair removal after a carbon laser facial.

Can I exercise after a carbon laser?

Avoid heavy exercising for a few weeks after the procedure to allow quick healing. Consult your doctor for aftercare instructions.

Is carbon peel better than microneedling?

If you are looking for overall skin rejuvenation, a carbon laser facial is the right choice. For specific issues like acne or wrinkles, microneedling would be the ideal treatment. Consult your dermatologist to understand which procedure is suitable for your needs.

Can I go to the beach after carbon laser peel?

Avoid sun exposure for a few days after the procedure as the skin is vulnerable. Once the skin is better, apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ to protect it from the harsh rays of the sun.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Dr. Schwarzburg MD

 

Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine. His authority is widely recognized, and his expert opinion has been sought by many prestigious publications, including Forbes, Glamour, Good Morning America,...more

Ramona SinhaEditor

 

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal. She also did a certificate course in dermatology offered by the Novosibirsk State University...more

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru. Her passion for writing and editing and her background in psychology help her create content that...more

Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content. She loves reviewing skin care and hair care products and constantly endeavors to provide...more